Prefer typing on a real keyboard instead of your phone? With WhatsApp Web or the WhatsApp app for Windows and Mac you chat from your computer, and it keeps working even when your phone is off or offline. These 12 tips help you work faster and more securely. Menu names may vary slightly between versions.
Get started
- Go to web.whatsapp.com or install the app from whatsapp.com/download. On Windows you'll also find the app in the Microsoft Store, on a Mac in the App Store.
- Open WhatsApp on your phone and go to Linked devices (via Settings on an iPhone or the three-dots menu on Android).
- Tap Link a device and scan the QR code on your computer.
1. Use keyboard shortcuts
Shortcuts save a lot of clicking. In the browser they sometimes differ from the desktop app, because your browser already uses some shortcuts itself. Open the overview in Settings > Keyboard shortcuts to see the list for your version. Some examples in the Windows desktop app:
- Ctrl + N: new chat
- Ctrl + F: search
- Ctrl + Tab: next chat
On a Mac, use Cmd instead of Ctrl.
2. Install the desktop app
The app for Windows and Mac starts faster than a browser tab, gives better notifications and supports voice and video calls. If you'd rather stay in the browser, install WhatsApp Web as an app through the Edge or Chrome menu (for example Apps > Install this site as an app). You don't need a separate Chrome extension.
3. Search your messages
Use the search bar above your chat list to search all conversations. Inside a chat, the magnifying glass at the top searches only that conversation.
4. Turn on dark mode
Go to Settings > Chats > Theme (or Appearance) and choose Dark, or let the theme follow your system setting.
5. Share files with drag and drop
Drag a file from your desktop into a chat. Or click the plus sign (or paperclip) and choose Document or Photos & videos.
6. Send messages to yourself
Your own chat is ideal for moving links and files between your phone and computer. Read how to message yourself in WhatsApp.
7. Insert emoji quickly
Type a colon followed by a word, such as :smile, and pick an emoji from the suggestions. On Windows, Windows + . also opens the system emoji panel.
8. Set up notifications
Go to Settings > Notifications and choose which notifications you want. In the browser, first allow notifications for web.whatsapp.com.
9. Record voice messages
Click the microphone icon to the right of the text box, record your message and click Send.
10. Pin and archive chats
Right-click a chat (or click the arrow next to it) and choose Pin to keep it at the top, or Archive to tidy up your list.
11. Mark as unread
Want to reply later? Choose Mark as unread in the same menu, so you don't forget the conversation.
12. Secure your session
- Turn on Screen lock in Settings > Privacy, if your version supports it.
- On a shared computer, sign out via the menu > Log out.
- Regularly check Linked devices on your phone and log out unknown sessions.
Also see how to install WhatsApp on your Windows PC or Mac and Microsoft Teams vs WhatsApp.
Read also
Install WhatsApp on your Windows PC or Mac (or use Teams?)
How to message yourself in WhatsApp
Microsoft Teams vs WhatsApp: when to use which app
Nederlandstalige versie: WhatsApp Web en de desktop-app: 12 tips en trucs